Senior Scientific Engineering Associate

Lawrence Berkeley National Lab’s (LBNL) Nuclear Science Division has an opening for a Senior Scientific Engineering Associate to join the team.

In this role, you will support the design and maintenance of beamline components, diagnostic equipment, and radiation detection instrumentation at the 88-Inch Cyclotron and across the Nuclear Science Division.

This position comprises mechanical, practical and scientific skills. A close working relationship with scientists, electrical and mechanical engineers, and electrical technicians is required to implement repairs and maintenance. The Senior Scientific Engineering Associate is based at the 88-Inch Cyclotron, but supports all research programs in the Nuclear Science Division. 

What You Will Do:

• Ensure that experimental equipment in the Nuclear Science Division is properly maintained through the execution of the responsibilities below and by working with the scientists, engineers, and technical staff to become familiar with the specific instrumentation and what is required to enable the science.

• Perform design, fabrication, assembly, and testing of mechanical systems, including vacuum systems, fluid and compressed gas systems.

• Work on assignments that are moderately complex in nature where judgment is required in resolving problems and making routine recommendations under general supervision.

• Assist NSD scientists in the design phase of experiments.

• Develop, design, fabricate, assemble, machine, install, set up, operate, test, inspect, maintain, troubleshoot, or modify a variety of scientific apparatus, equipment, components, devices, or systems and perform related technical support activities. 

Additional Responsibilities as needed:

• Operate calculators, personal computers, and computer terminals to access and/or measure and collect results from operating equipment, or information on parts, components, and materials necessary to accomplish assignments. 

• Access database and online information to identify, select and procure parts, components, and materials. Perform relevant mathematical calculations. 

What is Required:

• Two or more years of technical and/or college training or equivalent experience.

• Two years of experience gained in some of the following fields: assembly, fabrication, machining, vacuum systems, cryogenics, pumps and compressors, hydraulics, pneumatics, basic electrical. 

• Ability to carry out basic equipment diagnostics (collect and monitor test data) as needed.

• Ability to assist in fabrication, assembly, debugging, and troubleshooting of research apparatus.

• Sufficient mechanical technology expertise to perform maintenance work and implement repairs or upgrades.

• Knowledge of and ability to select, set up, and utilize appropriate hand, power, and machine tools, either manual or CNC controlled. 

• Competency in identifying mechanical parts and components, including sizes, ratings, tolerances, finishes, materials, and appropriate applications desired. 

• Demonstrated ability to successfully accomplish assignments by exercising sound independent judgment under general guidance and limited supervision, and to interpret complex engineering drawings, sketches, and component layout and assembly diagrams. 

• Familiarity with basic electrical principles.

• Ability to interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and schematics. 

• Analytical and communication skills sufficient to troubleshoot discrepancies in data results and make routine recommendations on solutions with a broad range of individuals.

Desired Qualifications:

• Knowledge equivalent to a Bachelor’s Degree in a functional specialty closely aligned with relevant programs and extensive related professional technical experience preferred.

• Experience in professions that require maintaining and/or assembling engineered systems comprising multiple components (mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, etc.) is highly desirable (e.g. automotive, HVAC, assembly line maintenance). 

• Experience with 2D/3D CAD.

Salary:

This position is expected to pay a targeted range of $7,853 to $10,799 per month depending upon the candidate’s skills, knowledge, and abilities, including education, certifications, and years of experience.

Notes:

• This is a full-time 2 year, term appointment with the possibility of extension or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.

• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.

• Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

Berkeley Lab is committed to Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accountability (IDEA) and strives to continue building community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and all who would contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, and professionalism. In support of our diverse global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.

Equal Opportunity and IDEA Information Links: Know your rights, click here for the supplement: Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law and the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision under 41 CFR 60-1.4.